Lions TE Eric Ebron, WR Golden Tate appear close to return

WR Golden Tate hasn't practiced since losing to the Bengals on Thursday. TE Eric Ebron hasn't practiced since injuring his ankle in a mock game more than two weeks ago.

But it looks like both players -- so critical to the Detroit Lions this season -- are nearing a return.

Tate was seen running on the side during practice Sunday afternoon, while Ebron jogged off the field following practice and then took some balls from the JUGS machine.

Fantasy Impact:

Coach Jim Caldwell has declined to address either player's status, but it seems both are not in danger of missing the season opener on Sept. 11 against the Colts, the story said. Tate's injury never really seemed major. Ebron's injury, though, provided Detroit with more of a scare when he had to be carted off the field during Detroit's mock game at Ford Field on Aug. 6, the story added.